Great Notley Country Park: Essex’s Expansive Family Adventure and Nature Haven
Explore Essex’s largest play trail, thrilling Sky Ropes, and serene natural beauty at Great Notley Country Park’s 100-acre family-friendly haven.
Great Notley Country Park, spanning 100 acres near Braintree, Essex, offers a vibrant mix of family-friendly adventure and tranquil natural beauty. Home to Essex’s longest 1.2km play trail and the thrilling Sky Ropes high ropes course, the park also features a fishing lake, wildflower meadows, accessible pathways, and sports facilities, making it perfect for all ages to explore, play, and relax in scenic countryside surroundings.
A brief summary to Great Notley Country Park
- Braintree, Great Notley, CM77 7FS, GB
- +443330132900
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Book Sky Ropes sessions in advance, especially during school holidays, to secure your spot on this popular high ropes course.
- Bring your own bike to enjoy the flat, family-friendly cycling route as there are no bike hire facilities on site.
- Check for any maintenance closures on play trail features or water play areas before visiting to plan your activities accordingly.
- Use the park as a starting point to explore the Flitch Way trail, ideal for longer walks, cycling, or horse riding.
- Visit the café for light refreshments and take advantage of picnic areas to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from central Braintree to Great Notley Country Park typically takes 10-15 minutes via local roads. Ample parking is available on-site with charges ranging from £2.80 for up to 1 hour to £6.30 for all-day parking. Note that the car park closes at 10pm.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Braintree town centre to Great Notley with journey times around 20-30 minutes depending on the route. Buses run regularly but check schedules in advance as frequency varies, especially on weekends. The park is a short walk from the nearest bus stop.
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Cycling
Cyclists can access the park via safe, flat routes from Braintree and surrounding areas. The park features a 1.8km hard-surfaced cycling and horse-riding track suitable for families and beginners. Bring your own bike as there are no hire facilities on site.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to the park is feasible, with flat and accessible paths leading into the park from Great Notley village and adjacent residential areas. Walking times vary from 15 to 45 minutes depending on your starting point.
Great Notley Country Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Great Notley Country Park
A Vast Playground for All Ages
Great Notley Country Park covers an impressive 100 acres of open green space, making it one of Essex’s premier outdoor destinations. At its heart lies Essex’s longest play trail, stretching 1.2km and packed with exciting features such as giant seesaws, tyre swings, rope climbers, slides, forts, and a large sand play area. This extensive trail invites children and families to jump, swing, crawl, and climb through a variety of engaging obstacles designed to spark imagination and physical activity. Adding to the adventure is Sky Ropes, a high ropes course that caters to thrill-seekers of all ages, including a junior version suitable for children from two years old. This aerial challenge offers an adrenaline-pumping experience surrounded by the park’s natural beauty, making it a standout attraction for families and groups.Natural Beauty and Wildlife Exploration
Beyond its play facilities, the park is a haven for nature lovers. It features a serene fishing lake and expansive wildflower meadows that provide seasonal bursts of color and attract a variety of wildlife. Birdwatchers may spot skylarks, owls, woodpeckers, and even bats, while the diverse habitats support foxes, weasels, and other fauna. The park’s accessible pathways and some informal grass trails allow visitors to explore these natural areas at a leisurely pace.Active Pursuits and Sporting Facilities
Great Notley Country Park caters to a range of outdoor activities beyond play and nature watching. A 1.8km flat, hard-surfaced cycling and horse-riding route runs through the park, ideal for families and beginners to build confidence on bikes. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the park’s 3G artificial turf football pitches and a multi-use games area for tennis, basketball, and netball. These facilities are available for hire, supporting both casual play and organized sports.Community and Conservation Efforts
Managed by local authorities and supported by dedicated volunteers, the park has seen numerous conservation projects, including tree planting, pond fencing for child safety, and habitat creation for reptiles like lizards and slow worms. These efforts help maintain the park’s ecological balance and ensure a safe, welcoming environment for visitors of all ages.Visitor Amenities and Practical Information
Visitors benefit from a large on-site car park, toilets, a visitor centre, and a café offering light refreshments. The park is open daily from 8am until dusk, with the car park accessible until 10pm. While some play trail areas and water play facilities may occasionally close for maintenance, the park consistently offers a rich variety of activities and spaces for relaxation, picnics, and family outings.Gateway to the Flitch Way and Surrounding Countryside
Great Notley Country Park serves as a gateway to the Flitch Way, a scenic trail for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders that extends beyond the park boundaries. This connection enhances the park’s appeal as a base for longer outdoor excursions and exploration of Essex’s countryside. With its blend of adventure, nature, and community spirit, Great Notley Country Park stands out as a versatile and welcoming destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and active visitors alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Finchingfield Post Mill
12.6 km
Discover Essex’s oldest post mill, a charming 18th-century landmark overlooking the picturesque village of Finchingfield.
Great Baddow Chain Home Radar Tower
17.4 km
The only complete Chain Home radar tower in the UK, a towering symbol of WWII air defence and Cold War innovation in Great Baddow.
Nigel’s Gate
21.6 km
Discover Nigel’s Gate, a tranquil historic landmark in Little Henham blending rural charm with timeless English heritage.
Balkerne Gate
26.0 km
Explore Balkerne Gate, Britain's largest surviving Roman gateway, a monumental symbol of Colchester’s ancient Roman heritage and architectural mastery.
Middle Mill Weir
26.6 km
Historic Middle Mill Weir on the River Colne, a testament to Colchester’s water-powered industrial heritage and enduring community spirit.
Roman Theatre
26.6 km
Ancient Roman amphitheatre where 3,000 spectators once gathered, now marked by darker paving in Colchester's historic streets.
Natural History Museum
26.7 km
Discover Colchester’s natural past and present in a charming historic church turned family-friendly museum with free entry and engaging exhibits.
Colchester War Memorial
26.7 km
A dignified tribute in the heart of Colchester honoring the sacrifice and service of its wartime heroes.
Laindon War Memorial
32.8 km
A solemn tribute in Basildon honoring Laindon's wartime heroes, blending history with community remembrance.
National Trust - Lavenham Guildhall
33.3 km
Discover Lavenham Guildhall: A Medieval Treasure in the Heart of England, Showcasing History and Heritage in a Picturesque Village.
Cudmore Grove Country Park
33.8 km
Explore the serene landscapes of Cudmore Grove Country Park on Mersea Island, where nature, wildlife, and scenic views await every visitor.
Barnards Miniature Railway
34.9 km
Discover the magic of model trains at Barnards Miniature Railway, a charming attraction in Brentwood offering fun for all ages amidst beautiful landscapes.
Hadleigh Park
35.1 km
Experience the beauty and recreation of Hadleigh Park, a country park with BMX tracks, lakes, and historical landmarks, perfect for all ages.
Hadleigh Castle
36.0 km
Discover Hadleigh Castle, a historical gem in Essex with breathtaking views and rich heritage, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Rye House Gatehouse
36.6 km
Discover the historical essence of England at the Rye House Gatehouse, a captivating landmark and museum in Hoddesdon, showcasing its rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Braintree & Bocking Public Gardens
3.4 km
Discover peaceful walks, diverse trees, family fun, and a welcoming café in Braintree’s cherished green oasis.
Cressing Temple Barns
7.0 km
Explore 13th-century Templar barns and a Tudor walled garden in the Essex countryside – a peaceful, historic escape with free public access on non-event days.
The Rayleigh Arms
7.2 km
A warm, traditional Essex gastropub in Terling serving hearty classics and fostering community spirit.
Markshall Estate
11.2 km
Historic Markshall Estate: A millennium of heritage, nature, and stewardship in Essex’s tranquil gardens and arboretum.
Talliston House & Gardens
11.3 km
Explore a magical 25-year transformation of an ordinary house into Britain’s most extraordinary home filled with stories, art, and global treasures.
National Trust - Paycocke's House and Garden
11.4 km
Discover the exquisite Tudor craftsmanship and tranquil Arts and Crafts garden of Paycocke's House, a jewel of England’s wool trade heritage.
National Trust - Grange Barn
11.5 km
Explore one of Europe's oldest timber-framed barns, a medieval marvel and vibrant cultural hub nestled in historic Coggeshall.
Coggeshall Museum
11.5 km
Discover the rich heritage of Coggeshall through its charming volunteer-run museum showcasing local history, crafts, and community stories.
Finchingfield Guildhall
12.5 km
Explore centuries of village life in this beautifully restored 15th-century Guildhall, a living heritage gem in the heart of Finchingfield.
Finchingfield unesco world heritage bid
12.6 km
Explore the oldest windmill in Essex, perched above the picturesque village of Finchingfield, a timeless symbol of rural heritage and charm.
The Gardens of Easton Lodge
14.0 km
Discover the restored Edwardian splendor and tranquil beauty of The Gardens of Easton Lodge, a historic 23-acre garden in Essex.
Essex Police Museum
14.1 km
Explore Essex’s policing history through engaging exhibits and interactive displays at this family-friendly museum in Chelmsford.
Admirals Park and Tower Gardens
14.5 km
A historic and tranquil green oasis in Chelmsford, blending Victorian gardens, riverside walks, and family-friendly recreation.
Chelmsford Cathedral
14.6 km
A peaceful, historic sanctuary in Chelmsford city centre blending medieval charm with vibrant community spirit and cultural events.
Bond Street Chelmsford
14.7 km
A vibrant modern shopping and leisure precinct in Chelmsford, blending retail, dining, and riverside charm.
Essential places to dine
Castle - Great Leighs
4.2 km
A charming and cozy English village pub in Great Leighs serving freshly cooked, reasonably priced meals with friendly service and warm ambiance.
The Square & Compasses
5.4 km
A charming Essex countryside gastropub blending rustic warmth with refined British cuisine and local ales.
Galvin Green Man
7.5 km
Historic 14th-century gastropub near Chelmsford offering award-winning seasonal British cuisine in a charming countryside setting.
Pig & Truffle
7.8 km
Historic charm meets modern British cuisine in a cozy village setting, delivering refined flavors and warm hospitality at Pig & Truffle.
Rose & Crown - Great Waltham
8.9 km
Essex village gastro pub where seasonal menus and warm hospitality create memorable dining moments.
Pig & Whistle Restaurant
11.6 km
Charming 16th-century countryside restaurant in Chelmsford offering award-winning British cuisine and a cosy, intimate dining experience.
Samphire Restaurant @ The County Hotel
14.5 km
Award-winning British cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, family-friendly Chelmsford setting.
Bill's Chelmsford Restaurant
14.7 km
A vibrant British restaurant in Chelmsford’s town centre, serving all-day meals, seasonal specials, and welcoming guests with a lively atmosphere.
Cosy Club
14.8 km
Experience timeless art deco charm and inclusive British dining at Cosy Club Chelmsford, open all day for every occasion.
Fête at Grays Brewery Yard
14.8 km
Eclectic global flavours and vibrant cocktails in a quirky, welcoming eatery at Chelmsford’s lively Brewery Yard.
Acanteen
15.0 km
Chelmsford’s all-day bar, restaurant and live music venue – brunch, pizza, cocktails and events in a buzzing city-centre setting.
The New London
15.4 km
Upscale Chelmsford restaurant offering scratch-made dishes, attentive service, and a cozy contemporary lounge atmosphere.
The Barn Brasserie, Great Tey
16.1 km
Historic 16th-century barn meets modern British dining in a charming Essex countryside setting with warm hospitality and versatile event spaces.
Russells Restaurant
16.4 km
Historic vaulted barn setting meets refined French and English fine dining with seasonal dishes and exceptional service in Great Baddow.
Bartellas Restaurant
20.3 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, inviting setting nestled in the Essex countryside near Ingatestone.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
George Yard Shopping Centre
2.8 km
A vibrant pedestrianised shopping hub in Braintree offering diverse stores and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Curiosity Shop
10.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in the heart of Great Dunmow at The Curiosity Shop, a charming boutique with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Riverside Retail Park
14.2 km
A convenient and lively retail hub in Chelmsford offering diverse stores, eateries, and accessible parking on Victoria Road.
The Emporium Maldon
18.5 km
A beloved family-run gift and garden shop in Maldon’s historic High Street, renowned for variety, community spirit, and local charm.
Love Local Essex & Suffolk
19.3 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures celebrating the rich heritage and creativity of Essex and Suffolk at this charming Copford gift shop.
Bestdays Vintage
26.4 km
Discover sustainable vintage fashion and eclectic music treasures in a cozy, welcoming Colchester shop with a personal touch.
Rocks & Rubies
26.6 km
Discover rare crystals, artisan gifts, and spiritual treasures in the heart of historic Colchester.
The Baytree Shopping Centre
31.0 km
A practical and accessible shopping centre at the heart of Brentwood, offering everyday essentials and local services.
French Quarter
31.0 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares in Brentwood’s welcoming French Quarter boutique.
Minnie's Boutique
31.0 km
Discover unique styles and personalized service at Minnie's Boutique, a charming ladies' clothing shop in Brentwood, perfect for every fashion enthusiast.
The Factory Shops
31.4 km
Discover unbeatable bargains and a diverse range of discounted goods at The Factory Shops, Rayleigh’s favorite value retail destination.
B-Invogue - Ladies Clothes Essex
31.9 km
A friendly Epping boutique offering stylish, affordable ladies’ fashion in a welcoming, personal setting.
The Lovely Shop
33.4 km
Explore the unique offerings of The Lovely Shop in Burnham-on-Crouch, where local craftsmanship meets delightful gift ideas.
Blush Boutique Essex
33.4 km
Chic and contemporary ladies’ fashion boutique on Epping High Street, blending quality, style, and comfort in every piece.
Emporium on the Quay
33.7 km
Discover unique local crafts and gifts in a charming riverside boutique on Burnham-on-Crouch’s scenic Quay.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Ale House
14.6 km
Chelmsford’s vibrant craft beer bar where you can bring your own food and enjoy a welcoming, lively atmosphere with expert service.
Voodoo Keller Bar
14.6 km
Discover Chelmsford’s underground cellar bar with 12 craft taps, lively rock vibes, and a cosy atmosphere perfect for beer lovers and night owls.
Boom Battle Bar Chelmsford
14.7 km
Chelmsford’s premier games bar blending axe throwing, shuffleboard, street food, and cocktails for unforgettable nights out.
Slug & Lettuce - Chelmsford
14.9 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Chelmsford offering creative drinks, stylish interiors, and a lively social atmosphere from brunch to late night.
The Bootmaker
15.0 km
Historic Chelmsford pub and cocktail bar blending tradition with modern social dining and handcrafted drinks.
Be At One - Chelmsford
15.0 km
Discover over 100 cocktails and vibrant nightlife at Be At One Chelmsford, featuring rooftop terrace and unbeatable happy hour deals.
The Orange Tree
15.4 km
A lively gastro pub in Chelmsford offering excellent ales, hearty meals, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Fox & Hounds
16.7 km
A welcoming Chelmsford pub offering hearty British classics, lively sports viewing, and a warm, friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
The Queen Victoria Public House
18.3 km
Historic British pub in Maldon offering freshly prepared fare, an extensive wine list, and warm, attentive service in a charming setting.
The Fox and Goose
18.7 km
A modern gastropub in Chelmsford blending traditional charm with seasonal British cuisine and inviting garden dining.
The Bear Inn - Stock
22.8 km
A warm, traditional gastropub in Stock offering hearty British fare, a large beer garden, and a welcoming village atmosphere.
The Leather Bottle Blackmore
23.4 km
A charming gastropub in Blackmore blending quirky decor, seasonal British cuisine, and a welcoming village atmosphere all year round.
George And Dragon Mount Nessin
26.0 km
A charming British gastropub in Mountnessing blending rustic tradition with modern dining and a welcoming atmosphere.
Three Wise Monkeys
26.6 km
A vibrant multi-floor pub in Colchester offering craft beers, hearty smokehouse food, and lively events in a unique historic setting.
The best bar none mobile bar hire
27.0 km
Family-run mobile bar hire in Southminster, Essex, delivering bespoke drinks and vibrant atmospheres for weddings and events across the UK.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Chelmsford
14.8 km
Experience Chelmsford’s ultimate pop-themed nightclub with vibrant music, creative cocktails, and unforgettable themed parties.
Club Tantalize
15.0 km
Chelmsford’s largest and most luxurious lapdancing club offering stylish nightlife with live pole shows and private VIP experiences.
Bar & Beyond Chelmsford
15.0 km
A large, lively nightclub in Chelmsford known for affordable drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and a mix of praise and controversy around its staff and music.
Rubix Bar & Nightclub
26.0 km
Experience Colchester’s lively nightlife with Rubix Bar & Nightclub’s energetic music, vibrant dance floor, and welcoming social scene every weekend night.
Trilogy Nightclub
26.4 km
Experience Colchester’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music and energetic crowds create unforgettable weekends.
The Loft Basildon
33.1 km
Experience Basildon’s vibrant dance scene with energetic music nights, friendly staff, and a lively atmosphere at The Loft Basildon.
Epping Roof Garden & Nightclub
33.4 km
A stylish rooftop nightclub in Epping blending lively nightlife with blooming garden charm and sophisticated cocktails.
The Lounge Jazz Club
34.3 km
Experience intimate jazz and soul performances in a cozy, elegant venue near Southend Airport with fine drinks and a lively atmosphere.
MooMoo Clubrooms Southend
38.0 km
Experience Southend’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, top DJs, and a lively atmosphere at MooMoo Clubrooms.
The Moonraker Club
38.1 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Westcliff-on-Sea with top DJs, a powerful sound system, and a lively social scene for unforgettable nights out.
Just Vibez
38.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and non-stop dancing at Just Vibez, Southend-on-Sea’s energetic nightclub hotspot.
Foundation
38.9 km
Vibrant nightclub and bar in Southend-on-Sea offering lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Sunrooms2
38.9 km
Experience Southend-on-Sea’s dynamic nightlife at Sunrooms², where live music and DJ-driven parties keep the energy alive until the early hours.
MYST Club
39.2 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Southend-on-Sea’s nightlife at MYST Club, where music, dancing, and social energy converge.
The Hertford Club
41.6 km
A historic private members’ club in Hertford, renowned for real ales, hearty home-cooked meals, and a vibrant social scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
